Frame assembly for carton die cutting machine

ABSTRACT

A jogger is provided for aligning carton blanks die cut from a sheet supported on inner grid mounted to an outer frame for a lower blanking tool of a carton die cutting machine. The jogger includes a plate member defining inner and outer faces. The plate member having a recess formed therein and a bore extending between the inner face and the outer face along an axis at an acute angle to the outer face. A jogger element is positioned within the recess and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A fastening element extends through the bore through the plate member and is receivable in a corresponding slot in the outer frame to interconnect the plate member to the outer frame.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10/197,190,filed Jul. 17, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,796,474 and entitled “Jogger forLower Frame Assembly of Blanking Tool” which is a divisional of U.S.Ser. No. 10/164,478, filed Jun. 6, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,708,858,issued Mar. 23, 2004 and entitled “Clamp Pieces For Lower Frame Assemblyof Blanking Tool.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to die cutting machines for makingcarton blanks, and in particular, to jogger for aligning carton blanksdie cut from a sheet positioned on a frame assembly for a lower blankingtool.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY INVENTION

In the manufacture of cartons, small sheets of paper material havingspecific profiles are cut out of larger sheets of paper material. Thesesmaller sheets are known as carton blanks that, in turn, are formed intocartons and/or boxes. The blanks are formed during a process known as ablanking operation in a die cutting machine.

In a die cutting machine, the blanks are cut, but not removed from alarge sheet of paper material. After the blanks have been cut, the sheetis moved downstream in the die cutting machine to a blanking stationwhere the sheet is positioned over a frame assembly for support. Theframe assembly includes an outer frame and an inner grid having largeopenings that correspond in size, in shape and in position to theprofile of the carton blank previously cut. Below the frame is amechanism for stacking the carton blanks.

At the blanking station, an upper tool is used in combination with thelower tool or frame assembly to knock the carton blanks from the sheetof paper material while holding the scrap material that surrounds theblanks. The upper tool has a support board that moves vertically up anddown in the die cutting machine, and the support board typically has aplurality of stand-offs depending therefrom that hold pushers spacedbeneath the board which in turn are used to push the carton blanks fromthe sheet through the lower tool or frame assembly. A plurality ofpresser assemblies are also mounted in the support board and dependtherefrom to hold the scrap material against the lower tool or frameassembly during the blanking operation so that the blanks may be pushedfrom the sheet. A presser assembly typically includes a presser railwhich is biased downwardly away from the support board by a spring sothat the rail is positioned slightly below the pushers. As the uppertool is lowered, the presser rail engages the sheet of paper materialfirst such that a scrap portion of the large sheet of material issecured between the presser rail and the frame. The upper tool thencontinues to be lowered such that the sheet of material engages theinner grid within the frame while at substantially the same time thepushers engage the carton blanks and knock the blanks out of the sheetof material and through the inner grid. The carton blanks then fall intoa stacking mechanism below the frame where the blanks are stacked forfurther processing.

The lower tool used in the blanking operation is typically comprised ofa steel or aluminum outer frame that supports an inner grind. The innergrid is typically comprised of a plurality of lengthwise and crosswiseextending bars. In order to secure the inner grid in place on the outerframe, the ends of each bar are typically screwed onto attachment pieceswhich, in turn, are mounted on the lengthwise and crosswise rails of theouter frame. Since the frame and grid support a sheet of paper materialduring the blanking operation, the grid must be configured to match orconform to the die cut in the sheet of paper material. In addition, thegrid must be reconfigured whenever a different carton blank needs to beproduced. Thus, unscrewing the inner grid from the outer frameoftentimes becomes very cumbersome and time consuming.

Therefore, it is a primary object and feature of the present inventionto provide an improved jogger for aligning carton blanks die cut from asheet positioned on a frame assembly for a lower blanking tool of acarton die cutting machine.

It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide ajogger for aligning carton blanks die cut from a sheet positioned on aframe assembly that may be easily attached to and positioned along theframe assembly.

It is a still further object and feature of the invention to provide ajogger for aligning carton blanks die cut from a sheet positioned on aframe assembly which is compatible with standard blanking operationmachinery and which is relatively inexpensive.

In accordance with the present invention, a jogger is provided foraligning carton blanks die cut sheets supported on an inner grid mountedto an outer frame for a lower blanking tool of a die cutting machine.The jogger includes a blank member defining a vertically extending innerface, an opposite vertically extending outer face, a horizontallyextending lower face and a bore extending between the inner face and theouter face along an axis in an acute angle to the outer face. The innerface includes a recessed formed therein. A jogger element slidablyreceived in the interface of the plate member. The jogger element ismovable between a retracted position and an extended position whereinthe jogger element retracts from the lower face of the plate member.

The recess in the inner face of the plate member is defined by first andsecond spaced vertically extending sidewalls extending from a recessedwall. The bore extends through the recessed wall. The first and secondsidewall converts towards each other as the first and second sidewallsextends from the recessed wall. The jogger element is defined byvertically extending outer face slidably engaging the recessed wall, ahorizontally extending upper face, an opposite horizontally extendinglower face, a first end face slidably engaging the first side wall, anda second end face slidably engaging the second side wall. The first andsecond end face is converged toward each other as the first and secondend face is extend between the outer wall and the inner wall of thejogger element.

The acute angle of the bore through the plate member is in the range of30 degrees and 80 degrees. Preferably, the acute angle of the borethrough the plate member is approximately 65 degrees. It is contemplatedthat the outer face of the plate member include a lip. The lip isengageable with the corresponding ledge along the outer frame to supportthe plate member thereon. A fastening element extends through the borethrough the plate member and is receivable in a corresponding slot inthe outer frame to interconnect the plate member to the outer frame. Thejogger element includes a generally oblong opening therethrough forreceiving a portion of the fastening element. The opening defines thelimits for movement of the jogger element between the retracted andextended positions.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a joggeris provided for aligning carton blanks die cut from a sheet supported onthe inner grid mounted to an outer frame for a lower blanking tool of acarton die cutting machine. The jogger plate member defining inner andouter faces. The plate member has a recessed formed therein and a boreextending between the inner face and the outer face along an axis at anacute angle to the outer face. The jogger element is positioned withinthe recess and is movable between a retracted position and an extendedposition.

The recessed is formed in the inner face and is defined by first andsecond extending sidewalls. The bore extends through the recessed wall.The first and second sides converge to each other as the first andsecond side wall extend from the recessed wall. The jogger element isdefined by a vertically extending inner face, an opposite verticallyextending outer face slidably engaging the recessed wall, a horizontalextending upper face, an opposite horizontally extending lower face, afirst end face slidably engaging the first side wall, and a secondopposite end face slidably engaging the second side wall. The first andsecond end faces converge toward each other as the first and second endfaces extend between the outer wall and the inner wall of the joggerelement.

The plate member further defines a horizontally extending upper face andan opposite horizontally extending lower face. The recess extendsbetween the upper and lower faces of the plate member. The lower face ofthe jogger element is substantially flush with the lower face of theplate member with the jogger element in the retracted position.

The outer face of the plate member includes a lip. The lip is engageablewith the corresponding ledge along the outer frame to support the platemember thereon. In order to interconnect the plate member to the outerframe, a fastening element extends through the bore through the platemember and is receivable in a corresponding slot in the outer frame. Itis contemplated that the acute angle of the bore through the platemember is in the range of 30 degrees and 80 degrees. Preferably, theangle of the bore through the plate member is approximately 65 degrees.The jogger element includes a generally oblong opening therethrough forreceiving a portion of the fastening element. The opening defines thelimits for movement of the jogger element between the retracted and theextended positions.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a frameassembly is provided for a lower blanking tool of a carton die cuttingmachine. The frame assembly includes a rigid outer frame, an inner grid,and a plurality of joggers attached to the outer frame. The inner gridincludes a plurality of length wise and crosswise extending bars. Eachjogger includes a plate member, a jogger element, and a fasteningelement. The plate member defines inner and outer faces. A recess isformed in the plate member and a bore extends between the inner face andthe outer face along an axis and an acute angle to the outer face. Thejogger element is positioned within the recess and is movable between aretracted position and an extended position. A fastening element extendsthrough the bore through the plate member and is receivable in acorresponding slot in the outer frame to interconnect the plate memberto the outer frame.

It is contemplated that the acute angle of the bore through each platemember is in the range of 30 degrees and 80 degrees. Preferably, theacute angle of the bore through each plate member is approximately 65degrees. Each jogger element may include a generally oblong openingtherethrough for receiving a portion of the fastening element. Theopening defines a limit for movement of the jogger between the retractedand extended positions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings furnished herewith illustrate a preferred construction ofthe present invention in which the above advantages and features areclearly disclosed as well as others which will be readily understoodfrom the following description of the illustrated embodiment.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a lower frame assembly for a blankingtool of a carton die cutting machine;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the lower frame assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged, isometric view of a corner of the lower frameassembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged, isometric view illustrating a clamp device inaccordance with the present invention for attaching a bar of the innergrid to the outer frame of the lower frame assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a top plan of the clamp device in accordance with the presentinvention for attaching a bar of the inner grid to the outer frame ofthe lower frame assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp device of the presentinvention taken along line 6—6 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp device of the presentinvention taken along line 7—7 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged, isometric view illustrating a jogger mounting tothe outer frame of the lower frame assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the jogger mounted to the outer frame ofthe lower frame assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an exploded, isometric view of the jogger of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the jogger mounted to the outerframe of the lower frame assembly taken along line 11—11 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the jogger mounted to the outerframe of the lower frame assembly taken along line 12—12 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged, isometric view illustrating a stiffening railsupport mounted to the outer frame of the lower frame assembly of FIG.1;

FIG. 14 is a front, elevational view of the stiffening rail support ofFIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the stiffening rail support mountedto the outer frame of the lower frame assembly taken along line 13—13 ofFIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged, isometric view illustrating a stiffening railclamp mounted to the outer frame of the lower frame of FIG. 1;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of the stiffening rail clamp of FIG. 13;

FIG. 18 is an exploded, isometric view of the stiffening rail clamp ofFIG. 13;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the stiffening rail clamp mountedto the outer frame of the lower frame assembly taken along line 19—19 ofFIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged, isometric view illustrating a bar supportmounted to the outer frame of the lower frame of FIG. 1;

FIG. 21 is a partially exploded, isometric view of the bar support ofFIG. 20 and associated bar,

FIG. 22 is a partially exploded, isometric view of the bar supportmounted to the outer frame of the lower frame of FIG. 1 and anassociated bar;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the bar support mounted to theouter frame of the lower frame assembly taken along line 23—23 of FIG.20; and

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the bar support mounted to theouter frame of the lower frame assembly taken along line 24—24 of FIG.20.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring to FIG. 1, a lower frame assembly for a blanking tool of acarton die cutting machine is generally designated by the numeral 10. Asis known, a die cutting machine converts or processes a sheet of papermaterial into a carton blank. These machines are well known in the artand are used to cut one or several blanks into each sheet of papermaterial which, after folding and gluing, may be formed into cartons orboxes. As is conventional, the sheets of paper material move in asubstantially horizontal plane within the machine and are carriedthrough various sequences of printing, cutting, embossing, creasing,waste stripping and/or blanking stations.

The die cutting machine usually is formed by a series of stations withthe first station being a starting position or input station in whichthe sheets, which may be preprinted if desired, are taken one by onefrom the top of a stack to a feed table where they are placed inposition against frontal and side guides. The sheet can then be graspedby a gripper bar and lead downstream or in the machine direction intosubsequent processing stations. Typically, the sheet is first conveyedinto a cutting station where the carton or box blanks of a desired sizeand profile are die cut into the sheet. These blanks are held to thesheet by knicks which are arranged along the cut edges of the blanks.This cutting station is usually comprised of upper and lower tools, oneof which is provided with a plurality of line-shaped straight and curveddie cutting blades. If desired, the cutting station may be proceeded bya printing station, or as noted above, the sheets may be preprinted.After cutting, the sheet is then lead to a stripping station where thewaste, i.e., the unused scrap between the various blanks, is grasped byupper and lower pins in order to be lead downward into a wastecontainer. The sheet is then fed to a blanking station where the sheetis positioned horizontally over a lower frame for support. The lowerframe includes an inner grid having large openings that correspond insize, in shape and in position to the profile of the blank previouslycut. An upper blanking tool having one or more presser assembliesmounted thereto then moves vertically downwardly in the die cuttingmachine to secure the scrap portions against the grid and frame andthen, as the tool continues to move downwardly, the fasten points orknicks between the blanks and the sheet are broken by pushers so thateach of the blanks are released, pushed through the grid and falls belowthe frame where the blanks are stacked for further processing. Finally,the residual or remaining portion of the sheet is carried to a deliveryor exit station where it is released by the gripper bar as wastematerial.

Referring back to FIG. 1, lower frame assembly 10 includes an outerframe comprised of a pair of opposite, spaced apart longitudinallyextending side frame members or side rails 12 and 14, and a pair ofopposite, spaced apart cross frame members or cross rails 16 and 18extending crosswise between side rails 12 and 14. Arrow 20 illustratesthe machine direction, i.e. the direction of movement of a sheet ofpaper material (not shown) within the die cutting machine. Thus, asillustrated in FIG. 1, side rail 12 may be considered the left side railwhile side rail 14 may be considered the right side rail. Likewise,cross rail 16 may be considered the front or leading cross rail, whilecross rail 18 may be considered the rear or trailing cross rail. Asillustrated, cross rails 16 and 18 are of sufficient length such thatthe opposite ends of cross rails 16 and 18 overlap correspondingopposite ends of side rails 12 and 14. In addition, it is contemplatedthat cross rails 16 and 18 be disposed on top of side rails 12 and 14 sothat the lower surface of cross rails 16 and 18 abut against the uppersurfaces of side rails 12 and 14.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, side rail 12 is rigidly interconnected tocross rails 16 and 18 by a pair of corner pieces 22 and 24,respectively. Similarly, side rail 14 is rigidly interconnected to crossrails 16 and 18 by corner pieces 24 and 22, respectively. Corner pieces22 are hereinafter referred to as right corner pieces while cornerpieces 24 are hereinafter referred to as left corner pieces. The terms“right” and “left” refer to the location of a tenon on the underside ofeach corner piece. It can be appreciated that left corner pieces 24 areessentially mirror images of right corner pieces 22. Corner pieces 22and 24 are used to rigidly interconnect rails 12, 14, 16 and 18 to oneanother so as to retain rails 12, 14, 16 and 18 together in a “square”or 90° relationship.

Side rails 12 and 14 are identical in structure, and as such, thedescription hereinafter of side rail 12 is understood to described siderail 14 as if fully described herein. In addition, side rails 16 and 18are identical in structure, and as such, the description hereinafter ofside rail 16 is understood to described side rail 18 as if fullydescribed herein. Side rail 12 extends along a longitudinal axis andincludes upper surface 26 lying in a plane. Upper surface 26 of siderail 12 includes t-shaped slot 28 therein that extends along the entirelength thereof. As best seen in FIG. 19, slot 28 extends along an axis30 disposed at an acute angle 32 to upper surface 26 of side rail 12. Itis contemplated that angle 32 fall within the range of 11 and 89°, butis preferably between about 300 to about 80° and is most preferablyabout 65°. Slot 28 has a terminal end located within side rail 12 andhas an open end that opens to upper surface 26 of side rail 12.

Side rail 12 further includes second t-shaped slot 34 formed along theentire length of inner surface 36 of side rail 12. Inner surface 36 ofside rail 12 lies in plane that is generally perpendicular to uppersurface 26 of side rail 12. Slot 34 extends along an axis 38 disposed atan acute angle 40 with respect to inner surface 36. Angle 40 may be anyangle between about 1° to about 89°, but is preferably between about 30°to about 80° and is most preferably about 65°. Slot 34 is identical instructure to slot 28 and extends along the entire length of side rail12. As illustrated, slot 34 has a terminal end located within side rail12 and an open end which opens to inner surface 36 of side rail 12. Theterminal end of slot 34 (as well as the terminal end of slot 28) isconfigured to conform to the shape of nuts 42 captured therein, forreasons hereinafter described.

Side rail 12 further includes a channel-shaped recess 44 formed in uppersurface 26 thereof. Recess 44 is formed in upper surface 26 between slot28 and the intersection of upper surface 26 and inner surface 36 andfunctions to receive a ruler or other measuring device to aid inbuilding an inner grid 46 within rails 12, 14, 16 and 18, as hereinafterdescribed. Recess 44 is formed along the entire length of upper surface26 of side rail 12 and opens to both of the opposite ends thereof.

Side rail 12 also includes an angled groove 48 formed in inner surface36 above slot 34. Groove 48 is formed along the entire length of innersurface 36 of side rail 12 and opens to both of the opposite endsthereof. As illustrated, groove 48 is defined by inwardly projectingledge 50 and angled surface 52. Ledge 50 has a planar surface and isdisposed at an angle of about 90° with respect to inner surface 36.Other acute angles for ledge 40 may be used, but 90° is preferred.Angled surface 52 forms an acute angle with ledge 50 that falls in therange of approximately about 30° to about 80°, but is preferably about70°. Groove 48 functions to receive a tenon of corresponding cornerpieces 22 and 24.

Referring now to FIGS. 3–4, 7–8 and 12, cross rail 16 includes an uppersurface 54, an opposite lower surface 56, an outer surface 58, and anopposite inner surface 60. Inner surface 60 is generally planer andfaces the interior of frame assembly 10. Cross rail 16 includes at-shaped slot 62 formed therein. Slot 62 extends along the entire lengthof inner surface 60 of cross rail 16 and opens to both of the oppositeends of cross rail 16. Slot 62 has a terminal end located within theinterior of cross rail 16 and has an open end that opens to innersurface 60 of side rail 60. The terminal end of slot 62 is configured toconform to the shape of nuts 72 captured therein, for reasonshereinafter described. Slot 62 defines a downwardly extending axis 64disposed at an acute angle 66 with respect to inner surface 60 of crossrail 16. It is contemplated that angle 66 fall in the range of 1° and89°, but is preferably an angle of about 30° to about 80°, and is mostpreferably about 65°.

Cross rail 16 also includes an inwardly projecting ledge 68 formed ininner surface 60. Ledge 68 is planar in shape and is disposed at anangle of 90° with respect to inner surface 60. However, ledge 68 couldalso be modified to be at an acute angle with respect to inner surface60 if desired. As shown, ledge 68 is located at the intersection of theupper surface 54 and inner surface 60 of cross rail 16 such that ledge68 is located between upper surface 54 and t-shaped slot 62. Ledge 68extends along the entire length of cross rail 16 and opens to both ofthe opposite ends of cross rail 16 in a manner similar to slot 62. Crossrail 16 further includes a channel-shaped recess 70 formed in uppersurface 54. Recess 70 is formed in and extends along the entire lengthof cross rail 16 and opens to both of the opposite ends of cross rail16. Recess 70 is typically utilized to receive a ruler or othermeasuring device that aids in the proper placement of inner grid 46.

Referring back to FIG. 3, corner piece 22 interconnects side rail 12 andfront cross rail 16 of the lower frame assembly 10, and includes anL-shaped body having a horizontal plate member 74 and an upright orvertical plate member 76. Horizontal plate member 74 defines asubstantially flat upper face, a substantially flat opposite lower face,an inside face, an opposite outside face and an end face. Asillustrated, each of these faces are substantially planar in shape.Upright or vertical plate member 76 also defines a substantially flatinner face contiguous with the upper face of plate member 74, asubstantially flat outer face contiguous with the lower face of platemember 74, an inside face contiguous with the inside face of horizontalplate member 74, an opposite outside face contiguous with the outsideface of horizontal plate member 74, and a top face. Horizontal platemember 74 has a pair of adjacent, aligned outwardly and downwardlyextending bolt receiving bores formed therethrough extending between itsupper face and lower face. Each bore defines an axis disposed at anacute angle with respect to the upper face of horizontal plate member74. It is preferred that the acute angle fall in the range of 1° and89°, but preferably between about 30° and about 80°, and is mostpreferably about 65°. Bolts 78 and 80 extend through bores in horizontalplate member 74 into slot 28 in upper surface 26 of side rail 12. Nutsare provided within the terminal end of the slot 28 in upper surface 26of side rail 12 and threaded onto the shafts of bolts 78 and 80 so as torigidly connect corner piece 22 to side rail 12.

Upright or vertical plate member 76 of corner piece 22 also includes apair of adjacent, aligned outwardly and downwardly extending boltreceiving bores formed therethrough from its inner face to its outerface through which bolts 84 extend into slot 62 in inner surface 60 ofcross rail 16. Each bore defines an axis disposed at an acute angle withrespect to the inner face of vertical plate member 76. Again, this acuteangle may be anywhere between 1° and 89°, but is preferably betweenabout 30° and about 80°, and is most preferably about 65° to match angle66 of slot 62. Nuts are provided within the terminal end of the slot 62in inner surface 60 of cross rail 16 and threaded onto the shafts ofbolts 84 so as to rigidly connect corner piece 22 to cross rail 16.

Vertical plate member 76 has a lip 86 projecting outwardly therefrom.Lip 86 has an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface oflip 86 is contiguous with the top face of vertical plate member 76 whileits lower surface is contiguous with the outer face of vertical platemember 76. Lip 86 is disposed substantially 90° with respect to theouter face of vertical plate member 76, and lip 86 extends completelyacross the outer face of vertical plate member 76. Although illustratedas being contiguous with the top face of vertical plate member 76, lip86 could also be spaced slightly downwardly therefrom if desired. Also,lip 86 need not necessarily extend completely across the outer face ofvertical plate member 76, but preferably does so to provide the maximumamount of clamping force against ledge 68.

Corner piece 22 also includes a tenon 88 projecting downwardly fromhorizontal plate member 74. Tenon 88 has an angled surface disposed atan acute angle with respect to the lower face of plate member 74. Thisacute angle may be any angle between 1° and 89°, but preferably matchesthe angle formed by angled surface 50 of groove 48 in side rail 12.Again, by matching the angle of angled surface 50, the maximum amount offriction is provided between tenon 88 of corner piece 22 and angledsurface 50 to provide the maximum amount of clamping force.

It can be appreciated that a right corner piece 22 may be used tointerconnect side rail 14 and cross rail 18 in the same manner asheretofore described with respect to side rail 12 and cross rail 16. Inaddition, as heretofore described, left corner pieces 24 are mirrorimages of right corner pieces 22. As such, the description heretoforeprovided for interconnecting side rail 12 and cross rail 16 with cornerpiece 22 may be understood to describe the connection of side rail 12and cross rail 18 with corner piece 24 and the connection of side rail14 and cross rail 16 with corner piece 24, as if fully described herein.

In order to increase the overall strength and stability of lower frameassembly 10, it is contemplated to interconnect stiffening rails 92 tocorresponding side rails 12 and 14, respectively, utilizing a pluralityof stiffening rail supports 96. It can appreciated that one of thestiffening rails 92 is interconnected to side rail 14 in the same matteras the other of the stiffening rails 92 is interconnected to side rail12, and as such, the following description of the interconnection of astiffening rail 92 to side rail 12 is understood to describe theinterconnection of stiffening rail 92 to side rail 14 as if fullydescribed hereinafter.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 13–15, stiffening rails 92 have a generallyt-shaped cross-section and a length substantially the same as the lengthof side rails 12 and 14. Each stiffening rail includes a horizontal leg99 and a vertical leg 100 disposed at 90° to one another. Stiffeningrails 92 may be composed of any suitable material, but is preferablysteel having sufficient strength to discourage flexing of side rails 12and 14. Vertical legs 100 of stiffening rails 92 have a longitudinallyextending v-shaped grooves 102 formed in one side thereof. The oppositesides of vertical legs 100 define planar faces which bear or abutagainst the outer faces 104 of clamp pieces 101 of stiffening railsupports 96, as illustrated. Stiffening rail supports 96 includev-shaped cuts 106 formed horizontally across outer faces 104.

Stiffening rail supports 96 further include c-shaped jaws 108 having apair of opposite parallel legs 110 and 112, with legs 112 being slightlylonger than legs 110. The terminal ends of legs 110 and 112 are roundedfor engagement with corresponding v-shaped grooves 102 and v-shaped cuts106, respectively. In order to interconnect a stiffening rail 92 tostiffening rail supports 96, screws 116 extend through correspondingwalls 118 of c-shaped jaws 108 into bores in clamp pieces 101. Thus, asscrews 116 are turned down in a clockwise direction, c-shaped jaws 108are moved toward corresponding clamp pieces 101 so that legs 110 engagecorresponding v-shaped groove 102 and legs 112 engage correspondingv-shaped cuts 106 until stiffening rail 92 is rigidly retained inposition.

Clamp pieces 101 of stiffening rail supports 96 further includedownwardly extending bolt-receiving bores 120 therethough for receivingcorresponding bolts 122. Bolts 122 extend into slot 34 in inner surface36 of side rail 12. Each bore 120 defines an axis 124 disposed at anacute angle 126 with respect to outer face 104 of a corresponding clamppiece 101. Acute angle 126 may be anywhere between 1° and 89°, but ispreferably between about 30° and about 80°, and is most preferably about65° to match angle 40 of slot 34. Nuts are provided within the terminalend of the slot 34 in inner surface 36 of side rail 12 and threaded ontothe shafts of bolts 122 so as to rigidly connect clamp pieces 101, andhence, stiffening rail supports 96 to side rail 12. In the assembledconfiguration, stiffening rails 92 stiffen side rails 12 and 14 toprevent any significant flexing thereof during a blanking operation.

In addition to outer face 104, each clamp piece 101 of stiffening railsupport 96 is defined by flat vertically extending inner face 103, ahorizontally extending upper face 105, an opposite horizontallyextending lower face 107, and a pair of opposite end faces 109 and 111.Each clamp piece 101 also defines slot 113 that extends along the entireheight of clamp piece 101 and opens to both upper face 105 and 107. Slot113 is defined by a vertical rear surface 115 and first and secondsidewalls 117 and 119, respectively. Sidewalls 117 and 119 extend frominner face 103 and diverge from each other.

Jogging element 121 is slidably received within slot 113. Joggingelement 121 includes an upright plate member defining substantiallyflat, vertically extending inner face 123, a substantially flatoppositely vertically extending outer face 125, a horizontally extendingupper face 127, an opposite horizontally extending lower face 129, and apair of opposite end faces 131 and 133. End faces 131 and 133 divergefrom each other as the end faces extend from inner face 123 to outerface 125. As described, end face 131 of jogging element 121 forms aslidable interface with sidewall 117, end face 133 of jogging element121 forms a slidable interface with sidewall 119, and outer face 125 ofjogging element 121 forms a slidable interface with rear wall 115.

Jogging element 121 further includes wall 135 defining a generallyoblong opening 137 to accommodate the portion of head 122 a of bolt 122that projects into slot 113. With jogging element 121 positioned withinslot 113, jogging element 121 is slidable between a first raisedposition wherein lower face 129 of jogging element 121 is substantiallyflush with the lower face 107 of clamp piece 101 and wherein head 112 aof bolt 122 engages lower portion 135 a of wall 135 and a loweredposition wherein lower face 107 of jogging element 121 is below lowerface 107 of the upright plate member and bolt head 122 a engages upperportion 135 b of wall 135. Jogging element 121 provides an adjustablestop for a sheet being positioned horizontally over lower frame assembly10.

Referring to FIG. 1, lower frame assembly 10 further includes inner grid46 composed of a plurality of parallel lengthwise bars 130 extending inmachine direction 20 between front cross rail 16 and rear cross rail 18,and a plurality of substantially parallel crosswise bars 132 extendingtransverse to machine direction 20 between left side rail 12 and rightside rail 14. Bars 130 and 132 of inner grid 46 can be point welded orglued with adhesive at the points where they intersect to insurerigidity of inner grid 46. As hereinafter described, the opposite endsof bars 130 are attached to cross rails 16 and 18 by corresponding clampdevices 136. Likewise, the opposite ends of bars 132 are attached toside rails 12 and 14 by corresponding clamp devices 138. It should benoted that the present invention is not limited to the design of innergrid 46 illustrated in FIG. 1 and that the design provided is forillustrative purposes only. It can be appreciated that the profile ofinner grid 46 may be changed depending upon the type, size and shape ofthe carton blank to be produced.

Referring to FIGS. 4–7, each clamp device 136 includes an upright platemember defining a substantially flat vertically extending inner face140, a substantially flat opposite vertically extending outer face 142,a horizontally extending upper face 144, an opposite horizontallyextending lower face 146, and a pair of opposite end faces 148 and 150.As described, clamp device 136 is generally rectangular in shape,although other geometric shapes are contemplated without deviating fromthe scope of the present invention.

Lip 152 is formed on outer face 142 of each clamp device 136. Lips 152project at right angles to outer faces 142 and extend completely acrossouter faces 142 between end faces 148 and 150 of clamp devices 136. Lips152 do not necessarily extend completely across outer faces 142 of clampdevices 136, but preferably do so to provide the maximum amount ofclamping force against ledges 68 formed in inner surfaces 60 of crossrails 16 and 18.

A substantially u-shaped upper cavity 156 is formed in upper face 144 ofeach clamp device 136. Cavity 156 is defined by spaced sidewalls 158 and160 and bottom wall 162. Sidewalls 158 and 160 extend vertically inplanes parallel to end faces 148 and 150 and are disposed at a 90° anglewith respect to inner face 140. Bottom wall 162 of each cavity 156includes depression 164 therein that extends along an axis perpendicularto inner face 140 for receiving the lower edge 130 a of bar 130 and foraiding in the alignment of bars 130, as hereinafter described. Cavity156 includes a tear-dropped shaped portion 165 at the intersection ofsidewall 160 and bottom wall 162.

Wedge members 166 are disposed within cavities 156 of clamp devices 136for pivotable movement between a clamped position wherein clampingsurfaces 168 of wedge members 166 engage and retain corresponding bars130 in a user desired position and a released position wherein bars 130may be removed from cavity 156. As illustrated, each wedge member 166has upper and lower faces 170 and 172, respectively, spaced by clampingsurface 168 and sides 174 and 176. Each clamping surface 168 isgenerally arcuate having an apex for engaging a corresponding bar 130.Each wedge member 166 also includes pivoting element 178 having atear-drop shaped cross section that is pivotably receivable withinportion 165 of a corresponding cavity 156. Each pivoting element 178 ofwedge members 166 extends from and is contiguous with upper and lowerfaces 170 and 172, respectively, and sides 174 and 176. Threadedapertures 180 extend through wedge members 166 between the upper andlower faces 170 and 172, respectively, thereof. Bolts 182 extend thoughcorresponding apertures 180 in wedge members 166 and into correspondingbores 184 formed in bottom walls 162 of clamp devices 136 so as tointerconnect wedge members 166 and corresponding clamp devices 136.

It can be appreciated that as bolts 182 are turned down in a clockwisedirection, wedge members 166 pivot on pivoting elements 178 toward theirclamped positions. Clamping surfaces 168 of wedge members 166 functionto engage bars 130 provided in depressions 164 to exert the necessaryclamping force to retain bars 130 in position between sidewalls 158 andclamping surfaces 168 of wedge members 166 as wedge members 166 pivotdownwardly into cavities 156. To release bars 130, bolts 182 are turnedin a counterclockwise direction until wedge members 166 pivot away fromcorresponding bars 130 to release the clamping pressure applied theretoso that bars 130 can be removed from cavities 156.

In order to attach clamp devices 136 to cross rails 16 and 18,rectangular recesses 190 are formed in inner faces 140 to define innerwalls 192. Downwardly and outwardly extending bolt-receiving bores 194extend through inner walls 192. Each bore 194 extends along axisdisposed at an acute angle with respect to outer face 142. The acuteangle may be anywhere between 1° and 89°, but is preferably betweenabout 30° and about 80°, and is most preferably about 65° to match theangle 66 defined by slot 62 in a corresponding cross rail 16 or 18.Bolts 198 extend through corresponding bores 194 into nuts (not shown)captured within slots 62. As bolts 198 are tightened, lips 152 arepulled tightly against corresponding ledges 68 of cross rails 16 and 18while at the same time outer faces 142 are forced to bear tightlyagainst corresponding inner faces 60 of cross rails 16 and 18 to rigidlyhold clamp devices 136 in position on cross rails 16 and 18.

Referring to FIGS. 16–19, it can be appreciated that clamp devices 138perform the dual function of interconnecting stiffening rails 92 tocorresponding side rails 12 and 14, as well as, interconnecting the endsof bars 132 to side rails 12 and 14. Each clamp device 138 includes anupright plate member that defines substantially flat, verticallyextending inner face 200, a substantially flat opposite verticallyextending outer face 202, a horizontally extending upper face 204, anopposite horizontally extending lower face 206, and a pair of oppositeend faces 208 and 210. As described, clamp device 138 is generallyrectangular in shape, although other geometric shapes are contemplateddepending upon the end use of clamp device 138.

Each clamp device 138 further includes a c-shaped jaw 212 having a pairof oppositely parallel legs 214 and 216, with a leg 216 being slightlylonger than leg 214. The terminal ends of legs 214 and 216 are roundedfor engagement with corresponding V-shaped grooves. 102 formed invertical legs 100 of stiffening rail 92 and v-shaped cuts 218 formedhorizontally across outer faces 202 of clamp devices 138. In order tointerconnect a stiffening rail 92 to clamp devices 138, screws 220extend through corresponding walls 222 of c-shaped jaws 212 into bores224 formed in outer faces 202 of clamp devices 138. As screws 220 areturned down in a clockwise direction, c-shaped jaws 212 are moved towardcorresponding outer faces 202 of clamp devices 138 so that legs 214engage corresponding v-shaped groove 102 in vertical leg 100 ofstiffening rail 92 and legs 216 engage corresponding v-shaped cuts 218until stiffening rail 92 is rigidly retained in position.

Lip 226 is formed on outer face 202 of each clamp device 138. Lips 226project at right angles to outer faces 202 and extend completely acrossouter faces 202 between end faces 208 and 210 of clamp devices 138. Lips226 do not necessarily extend completely across outer faces 202 of clampdevices 138, but preferably do so as to provide the maximum amount ofclamping force against ledges 50 in side rails 12 and 14.

A substantially unshaped upper cavity 228 is formed in upper face 204 ofeach clamp device 138. Cavity 228 is defined by spaced sidewalls 230 and232 and bottom wall 234. Sidewalls 230 and 232 extend vertically inparallel planes and are disposed at right angles to inner face 200.Bottom wall 234 of each cavity 238 includes depression 236 therein thatextends along an axis perpendicular to inner face 200 for receiving thelower edge 132 a of bar 132 and for aiding the alignment of bars 132.Each cavity 228 includes a portion 238 having a tear-drop shaped crosssection at the intersection of sidewall 232 and bottom wall 234.

Wedge members 240 are disposed within cavities 228 of clamp devices 138for pivotable movement between a clamped position wherein clampingsurfaces 242 of wedge members 240 engage and retain corresponding bars132 in a user desired position and a released position wherein bars 132may be removed from cavity 228. As illustrated, each wedge member 240has upper and lower faces 244 and 246, respectively, spaced by clampingsurface 242 and sides 248 and 250. Each clamping surface 242 isgenerally arcuate having an apex for engaging a corresponding bar 132.Each wedge member 240 also includes pivoting element 252 having a teardrop shaped cross section that is pivotably receivable within portion238 of a corresponding cavity 228. Each pivoting element 252 of wedgemembers 240 extends from and continuous with upper and lower faces 244and 246, respectively, and sides 248 and 250. Threaded apertures 254extending through wedge members 240 between upper and lower faces 244and 246, respectively, thereof. Bolts 256 extend through correspondingapertures 254 and wedge members 240 and into corresponding bores 258formed in bottom walls 234 of clamp devices 138 so as to interconnectwedge members 240 and corresponding clamp devices 138.

It can be appreciated that as bolts 256 are turned down in a clockwisedirection, wedge members 240 pivot on pivoting elements 252 toward theirclamped positions. Clamping surfaces 242 of wedge members 240 functionto engage bars 132 provided in depressions 234 to exert the necessaryclamping force to retain bars 132 in position between sidewalls 204 andclamping surfaces 242 of wedge members 240 as wedge members 240 pivotdownwardly into cavities 228. To release bars 132, bolts 256 are turnedin a counterclockwise direction until wedge members 240 pivot away fromcorresponding bars 132 to release the clamping pressure applied theretoso that bars 132 can be removed from cavities 228.

In order to attach clamp devices 138 to side rails 12 and 14,rectangular recesses 260 are formed in inner faces 200 that define innerwalls 262. Downwardly and outwardly extending bolt-receiving bores 264extend through inner walls 262. Each bore 264 extends along an axisdisposed on an acuate angle with respect to outer face 202 of acorresponding clamp device 138. The acuate angle may be anywhere between1° and 89°, but is preferably between about 30° and about 80°, and ismost preferably about 65° to match the angle 40 defined by slot 34 in acorresponding side rail 12 or 14. Bolts 266 extend through correspondingbores 264 into nuts (not shown) captured within slots 34. As bolts 266are tightened, lips 226 are pulled tightly against corresponding ledges50 of side rails 12 and 14 while at the same time outer faces 202 areforced to bear tightly against corresponding inner faces 36 of siderails 12 and 14 to rigidly hold clamp devices 138 in position on siderails 12 and 14.

Referring to FIGS. 20–24, an alternate clamp device is generallydesigned by the reference numeral 270. As hereinafter described, clampdevice 270 may be used to attach the opposite ends of an alternate bar272 to cross rails 16 or 18. Bar 272 takes the form of generally flatpanel having first and second sides 274 and 276, first and second edges278 and 280, respectively, and end 282. A generally cylindrical mountingpin 284 projects from end 282 of bar 272, for reasons hereinafterdescribed.

Clamp device 270 includes an upright plate member defining asubstantially flat, vertically extending inner face 284, a substantiallyflat opposite vertically extending outer face 286, a horizontallyextending upper face 288, an opposite horizontally extending lower face290, and a pair of opposite end faces 292 and 293. As described, clampdevice 270 is generally rectangular in shape although other geometricshapes are contemplated about deviating from the scope of the presentinvention.

Lip 294 is formed on outer face 286 of clamp device 270. Lip 294projects at a right angle to outer face 286 and extends completelyacross outer face 286 between end faces 292 and 293 of clamp device 270.Lip 294 does not necessarily extend completely across outer face 286 ofclamp device 270, but preferably does so as to provide the maximumamount of clamping force against ledge 68 formed in inner surface 60 ofcross rail 16.

Panel receiving slot 296 that extends along the entire height of clampdevice 270 and opens to both upper face 288 and lower face 290. Slot 296includes a first inner portion 296 a defined by sidewalls 298 a and 300a, and an outer portion 296 b defined by sidewalls 298 b and 300 b.Outer portion slot 296 is further defined by a lower horizontal supportsurface 301 that is generally parallel to and positioned between upperand lower faces 288 and 290, respectively, of clamp device 270. Asdescribed, sidewalls 298 a and 300 a are spaced of sufficient dimensionto allow end 282 of bar 272 to be inserted therebetween. Similarly,sidewalls 298 b and 300 b are spaced of sufficient dimension to allowpin 284 to be inserted therebetween. The intersection of sidewalls 298 aand 298 b define a shoulder 302 within slot 296 and the intersection ofsidewalls 300 a and 300 b define shoulder 304 within slot 296. End 282of bar 272 engages shoulders 302 and 304 when end 282 of bar 272 isfully inserted into slot 296 in clamp device 270. With end 282 of bar272 fully inserted within slot 296 in clamp device 270, pin 284 isreceived within outer portion 296 b of slot 296. It can be appreciatedthat pin 284 may be rested on support surface 301 to allow supportsurface 301 to vertically support bar 272.

In order to maintain bar 272 within slot 296 in clamp device 270, a setscrew 306 extends through bore 308 formed in end face 292 of clampdevice 270. Bore 302 communicates with inner portion 296 a of slot 296.It can be appreciated that as set screw 306 is turned in a clockwisedirection, the terminal end 306 a of set screw 306 engages side 274 ofbar 272 to exert the necessary clamping force to retain bar 272 inposition within slot 296. To release bar 272, set screw 306 is turned ina counterclockwise direction until terminal end 306 a of set screw 306disengages from side 274 of bar 272 to release the clamping pressureapplied thereto so that bar 272 can be removed from slot 296.

In order to attach clamp device 270 to cross rail 16, a downwardly andoutwardly extending bolt receiving bore 307 extends through clamp device270 between inner face 284 and outer face 286. Bore 298 extends along anaxis disposed at an acute angle with respect to outer face 286. Theacute angle maybe anywhere between 1° and 89°, but preferably is betweenabout 30° and 80°, and is most preferably about 65° to match the angle66 defined by slots 62 in cross rail 16. Bolt 310 extends throughcorresponding bore 307 into a nut (not shown) captured within slot 62.As bolt 310 is tightened, lip 294 is pulled tightly againstcorresponding ledge 68 of cross rail 16 while at the same time outerface 286 is force to bear tightly against corresponding inner face 60 ofcross rail 16 to rigidly hold clamping device 270 in position acrossrail 16.

Referring to FIGS. 8–12, a jogger is generally designated by thereference numeral 320. Jogger 320 is connectable to cross-rails 16 and18 for aligning a sheet on inner grid 46 of lower frame assembly 10.Jogger 320 includes an upright plate member defining a substantiallyflat vertically extending inner face 322, a substantially flat oppositevertically extending outer face 324, a horizontally extending upper face326, an opposite horizontally extending lower face 328, and a pair ofopposite end faces 330 and 332. As described, jogger 320 is generallyrectangular in shape, although other geometric shapes are contemplatedwithout deviating from the scope of the present invention.

Lip 334 is formed in outer face 324 of jogger 320. Lip 334 projects at aright angle to outer face 324 and extends completely across outer face324 between end faces 330 and 332 of jogger 320. Lip 334 does notnecessary extend completely across outer face 324 of jogger 320, butpreferably does so as to provide the maximum amount of clamping forceagainst ledge 68 formed in the inner surface 60 of cross rail 16. Inaddition, slot 336 extends along the entire height of jogger 320 andopens to both upper face 326 and lower face 328. Slot 336 is defined bya vertical rear surface 338 and first and second sidewalls 340 and 342,respectively. Sidewalls 340 and 342 extend from inner face 322 anddiverge from each other.

In order to attach jogger 320 to cross rail 16, a downwardly andoutwardly extending bolt receiving bore 344 extends through jogger 320between rear wall 338 and outer face 324. Bore 344 extends along an axis346 disposed at an acute angle with respect to outer face 324. The acuteangle may be anywhere between 1° and 89°, but preferably is betweenabout 30° and 80°, and is most preferably about 65° to match the angle66 defined by slot 62 in cross rail 16. Bolt 348 extends throughcorresponding bore 344 into nut 350 captured within slot 62. As bolt 348is tightened, lip 334 is pulled tightly against corresponding ledge 68of cross rail 16 while at the same time outer face 324 is forced to beartightly against corresponding inner face 60 of cross rail 16 to rigidlyhold jogger 320 in position against cross rail 16. With bolt 348threaded in bore 344, a portion of head 348 a of bolt projects into slot336.

Jogger 320 further includes jogging element 352 that is slidablyreceived within slot 336. Jogging element 352 includes an upright platemember defining substantially flat, vertically extending inner face 354,a substantially flat oppositely vertically extending outer face 356, ahorizontally extending upper face 358, an opposite horizontallyextending lower face 360, and a pair of opposite end faces 362 and 364.End faces 362 and 364 diverge from each other as the end faces extendfrom inner face 354 to outer face 356. As described, end face 362 ofjogging element 352 forms a slidable interface with sidewall 340, endface 364 of jogging element 352 forms a slidable interface with sidewall342, and outer face 356 of jogging element 352 forms a slidableinterface with rear wall 338.

Jogging element 352 further includes wall 370 defining a generallyoblong opening 366 to accommodate the portion of head 348 a of bolt 348that projects into slot 336. With jogging element 352 positioned withinslot 336, jogging element 352 is slidable between a first raisedposition wherein lower face 360 of jogging element 352 is substantiallyflush with the lower face 328 and wherein head 348 a of bolt 348 engageslower portion 370 a of wall 370 and a lowered position wherein lowerface 360 of jogging element 352 is below lower face 328 of the uprightplate member and bolt head 348 engages upper portion 370 b of wall 370.Jogging element 352 provides an adjustable stop for a sheet beingpositioned horizontally over lower frame assembly 10.

Various modes of carrying out the invention are contemplated as beingwithin the scope of the following claims particularly pointing anddistinctly claiming the subject matter which is regarded as theinvention.

1. A lower blanking tool frame assembly of a carton die cutting machine,said lower blanking tool frame assembly having a frame member,comprising: an elongated rail having a generally rectangularcross-section, the rail including an upper surface, a lower surface, anouter surface and an inner surface perpendicular to the upper and lowersurfaces, intersecting the upper surface at an upper corner,intersecting the lower surface at a lower corner, and having a generallyflat portion, and said rail having a bolt-receiving T-shaped slot formedtherein, said slot opening to the generally flat portion of said innersurface at a location spaced from the upper and lower corners anddefining a downwardly extending axis disposed at an acute angle withrespect to the generally flat portion of said inner surface.
 2. Theframe member of claim 1 wherein said angle is between about 30° to about80°.
 3. The frame member of claim 1 wherein said angle is about 65°. 4.The frame member of claim 1 wherein said rail is composed of aluminum.5. The frame member of claim 1 wherein said rail is composed of extrudedaluminum.
 6. The frame member of claim 1 wherein said rail has oppositeends and a length greater than either its height or its width, and saidslot is formed throughout the entire length thereof and open to both ofsaid opposite ends.
 7. The frame member of claim 1 wherein the uppercorner of the inner surface of said rail further includes a ledge formedtherein.
 8. The frame member of claim 7 wherein said ledge projectsinwardly into said rail.
 9. The frame member of claim 8 wherein saidledge has a planar surface.
 10. The frame member of claim 9 wherein saidplanar surface is disposed at an angle of 90° with respect to said innersurface.
 11. The frame member of claim 7 wherein said ledge is locatedbetween said upper surface and said T-shaped slot.
 12. The frame memberof claim 7 wherein said rail has opposite ends and a length greater thaneither its height or its width, and said ledge is formed along theentire length thereof and opens to both of said opposite ends.
 13. Theframe member of claim 7 further including a channel-shaped recess formedin the upper surface of said rail.
 14. The frame member of claim 13wherein said rail has opposite ends and a length greater than either itsheight or its width and said recess is formed along the entire lengththereof and opens to both of said opposite ends.
 15. The frame member ofclaim 1 further including a V-shaped cavity formed in the outer surfaceof said rail.
 16. The frame member of claim 15 wherein said rail hasopposite ends and a length greater than either its height or its width,and said cavity is formed along the entire length thereof and opens toboth of said opposite ends.
 17. The frame member of claim 1 wherein saidrail further includes a second bolt-receiving T-shaped slot formedtherein, said second slot opening to said upper surface and defining anaxis disposed at an acute angle with respect to said upper surface. 18.The frame member of claim 17 wherein said angle is between about 30° toabout 80°.
 19. The frame member of claim 17 wherein said angle is about65°.
 20. The frame member of claim 5 wherein said rail has opposite endsand a length greater than either its height or its width, and saidsecond slot is formed throughout the entire length thereof and open toboth of said opposite ends.
 21. A lower blanking tool frame assembly ofa carton die cutting machine, said lower blanking tool frame assemblyhaving a frame member, comprising: an elongated rail having an uppersurface, a lower surface, an outer surface and an inner surface, theinner surface intersecting the lower surface at a lower corner andincluding first and second generally flat portions separated by a ledgeparallel to the upper surface and the lower surface; and the rail havinga bolt-receiving T-shaped slot formed therein opening to the firstportion of the inner surface at a location between the lower corner andthe ledge, the slot extending along a downwardly extending axis disposedat a acute angle with respect to first portion of the inner surface. 22.The frame member of claim 21 wherein the acute angle is between about30° to about 80°.
 23. The frame member of claim 21 wherein the acuteangle is between about 65°.
 24. The frame member of claim 21 wherein therail has opposite ends and a length, and wherein the slot is formedthroughout the entire length of the rail and is open to both of theopposite ends.
 25. The frame member of claim 21 wherein the ledge isdisposed at an angle of 90° with respect to the first portion of saidinner surface.
 26. The frame member of claim 21 wherein the ledge islocated between the upper surface and the T-shaped slot.
 27. The framemember of claim 21 wherein the rail has opposite ends and a length, andwherein the ledge is formed along the entire length of the rail andopens to both of the opposite ends.
 28. The frame member of claim 21further including a channel-shaped recess formed in the upper surface ofthe rail.
 29. The frame member of claim 28 wherein the rail has oppositeends and a length and wherein the recess is formed along the entirelength of the rail and opens to both of the opposite ends.
 30. The framemember of claim 21 further including a V-shaped cavity formed in theouter surface of the rail.
 31. The frame member of claim 30 wherein therail has opposite ends and a length, and wherein the cavity is formedalong the entire length of the rail and opens to both of the oppositeends.
 32. The frame member of claim 21 wherein said the further includesa second bolt-receiving slot formed therein, the second slot opening tothe upper surface and defining a second axis disposed at an acute anglewith respect to the upper surface.
 33. The frame member of claim 32wherein the second axis is disposed at an angle of between about 30° toabout 80° to the upper surface.
 34. The frame member of claim 33 whereinthe second axis is disposed at an angle of between about 65° to theupper surface.
 35. The frame member of claim 32 wherein the rail hasopposite ends and a length, and wherein the second slot is formedthroughout the entire length of the rail and opens to both of theopposite ends.
 36. The frame member of claim 21 wherein the first andsecond portions of inner surface lie in corresponding planes and whereinthe plane of the first portion of the inner surface is generallyparallel the plane of the second portion of the inner surface.